State Library makes some noise

State Library makes some noise

By Khiara Elliott

Proving that it’s more than just a sanctuary of books, the iconic State Library Victoria has been unveiled as the 2016 hub for Melbourne Music Week.

Commemorating its 160th birthday this year, the State Library is Australia’s oldest public library and will continue the celebrations by becoming the events live music hub from November 11-19.

“The library is a vibrant gathering space for all Victorians and Melburnians and we’re thrilled that this event is an extension of the creativity that happens here every single day,” said library CEO Kate Torney.

Melbourne Music Week is not only a celebration of local talent, but also a major economical boost for the city. Marketing portfolio chair Cr Beverley Pinder-Mortimer praised the event and the impact it could have on local businesses within the CBD.

“Melbourne Music Week goes from success to success, with more than 40,000 attendees at the event last year – generating an economic benefit of $2.03 million,” she said.

“The event aims to support Melbourne’s burgeoning music scene by driving foot traffic into businesses and venues.”

Melbourne Music Week is renowned for its use of unconventional and hidden spaces and this year is no different. The event will see the State Library’s original reading room, Queen’s Hall as the main stage in the hub.

The beautiful space will be shortly renovated after being closed to the public for 10 years.

The opening night ceremony will boast an all female line up of music industry queens coming together with Her Sound, Her Story: A Celebration of Women in Music. The line-up includes industry heavy-hitters Julia Stone, Ella Hooper and Ecca Vandal, to name a few, who will be performing pieces written over decades of Australian music history.

The LaTrobe Reading Room, famed for being home to Victoria’s most photographed ceiling, will also act as a performance space for the duration of the event. The forecourt of the library will host free-all-ages performances, DJ sets and an array of food offerings everyday from 10am-10pm.

The full Melbourne Music Week program will be announced October 4.

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